Neo-Holy Roman Federation

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation (NHRF) stands as one of the three dominant superpowers that reshaped the global order in the aftermath of the Incandescent Scission. Forged from the crucible of the 2030 cataclysm and the ensuing global refugee crisis, the NHRF is a sprawling, technologically advanced, and culturally complex entity that controls vast swathes of continental Europe and exerts significant influence across the post-apocalyptic world. Rooted in the historical legacy of the Holy Roman Empire and drawing upon the resilience and ingenuity of its diverse populace, the NHRF represents a potent blend of traditional values and futuristic ambition. Its territories, while largely spared the direct devastation of the Neon Divide, have nonetheless been profoundly impacted by the global upheaval, the influx of refugees, and the pervasive threat of monstrous incursions. The Federation's strategic location, combined with its adept utilization of both advanced technology and the esoteric arts of Nen, has allowed it to emerge as a major player in the new geopolitical landscape, vying for resources, influence, and survival in a world irrevocably altered.

Genesis and Formation

The seeds of the Neo-Holy Roman Federation were sown in the chaotic years immediately following the Incandescent Scission. While the North American continent was plunged into radioactive ruin and monstrous anarchy, Europe braced itself for a different kind of cataclysm: the mass exodus of refugees fleeing the ravaged lands of Neo-America. Millions sought sanctuary across the Atlantic, overwhelming existing infrastructure and straining social fabrics. European nations, already grappling with the aftershocks of global economic collapse and the rising tide of fear and uncertainty, found themselves on the front lines of a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale.

Amidst this turmoil, the concept of a unified European entity, long discussed and often attempted in various forms throughout history, gained renewed momentum. The existing European Union, weakened by internal divisions and unprepared for the sheer scale of the disaster, proved inadequate to address the multifaceted challenges. Nationalist sentiments, initially exacerbated by the refugee influx, gradually gave way to a pragmatic realization that collective action was the only path to survival and stability. Visionary leaders, drawing inspiration from the historical precedents of the Holy Roman Empire and the more recent European integration movements, began to articulate a vision for a new federation – one that could pool resources, coordinate defense, and provide a framework for collective security and prosperity in a fractured world.

This nascent federation began to take shape through a series of treaties and alliances among the nations of Central and Western Europe. Germany, with its robust industrial base and relatively stable political system, emerged as a natural leader in this process. Austria, Switzerland, and the Benelux countries, historically intertwined and sharing cultural affinities, were early proponents of closer integration. Italy and France, despite initial reservations and lingering national rivalries, eventually recognized the strategic and economic advantages of joining a larger, unified entity. Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary, nations with a history of resilience and adaptation to geopolitical shifts, also gravitated towards the emerging federation, seeking collective strength against external threats and internal instability.

The formal establishment of the Neo-Holy Roman Federation was declared in 2035 at the Treaty of Aachen, symbolically invoking the historical significance of Charlemagne's capital. The treaty outlined the core principles of the federation: collective defense, economic cooperation, free movement of people and goods within member states, and a commitment to technological and societal advancement. The name "Neo-Holy Roman Federation" was deliberately chosen to evoke a sense of historical continuity and imperial grandeur, while the "Neo" prefix acknowledged the distinct context of the post-cataclysm world and the need for a modernized, forward-looking approach.

Early Consolidation and Expansion

The initial years of the NHRF were focused on internal consolidation and establishing its authority across its member states. A unified military command structure was established, integrating the armed forces of the constituent nations under a central command, albeit with significant autonomy retained by individual member states. Economic policies were harmonized, trade barriers were dismantled, and joint infrastructure projects were initiated to rebuild and modernize transportation and communication networks.

Crucially, the NHRF invested heavily in developing technologies to counter the emerging threats from Neo-America and the mutated creatures that occasionally crossed the Atlantic or manifested in Europe. Research into advanced radiation shielding, energy weapons, and Nen-based defensive systems became a top priority. The Federation also recognized the strategic importance of Radium Crystals as a crucial energy source and initiated expeditions to secure deposits in regions outside of Neo-America, particularly in parts of Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.

The NHRF's initial territorial footprint encompassed primarily Central and Western Europe. However, its sphere of influence gradually expanded through a combination of diplomatic outreach, economic incentives, and strategic alliances. Spain and Portugal, facing economic hardship and seeking stability, joined the Federation in 2038. Scandinavia, recognizing the NHRF's growing strength and seeking protection from potential threats emanating from the east, also gradually integrated, with Denmark, Norway, and Sweden joining by the early 2040s. Greece and parts of the Balkans, though initially hesitant due to historical and geopolitical complexities, eventually sought closer ties with the NHRF, drawn by the promise of economic assistance and security guarantees.

By the mid-21st century, the Neo-Holy Roman Federation had solidified its position as a major superpower, controlling a vast and resource-rich territory, possessing a formidable military, and wielding significant economic and technological clout on the global stage. Its success in navigating the turbulent post-cataclysm world can be attributed to a combination of factors: its ability to forge unity from diversity, its pragmatic approach to problem-solving, its strategic investments in technology and defense, and its skillful diplomacy in building alliances and expanding its sphere of influence.

Political Structure and Governance

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation operates as a federal republic, drawing inspiration from both the historical Holy Roman Empire and modern federal systems. It is characterized by a complex and layered governance structure, balancing centralized authority with regional autonomy. Power is distributed among three primary branches: the Imperial Diet, the Imperial Council, and the Imperial Judiciary.

The Imperial Diet (Reichstag)

The Imperial Diet, or Reichstag in the Federation's lingua franca, German, serves as the legislative branch of the NHRF. It is a bicameral assembly composed of two chambers: the Chamber of States (Ständekammer) and the Chamber of People (Volkskammer).

• Chamber of States (Ständekammer): This chamber represents the constituent states (member nations and autonomous regions) of the Federation. Each state, regardless of its size or population, is allocated a fixed number of seats, ensuring representation for smaller entities and preventing domination by larger states. Delegates to the Chamber of States are appointed by the state governments, reflecting the interests and perspectives of the regional administrations.
• Chamber of People (Volkskammer): The Chamber of People represents the citizens of the Federation directly. Members are elected through popular vote in each member state, with seats allocated proportionally to population size. This chamber is intended to reflect the will of the people and ensure democratic accountability within the federal structure.

The Imperial Diet is responsible for enacting federal laws, approving the federal budget, and overseeing the executive branch. Legislation typically requires the approval of both chambers to become law, ensuring a balance between state interests and popular will. The Diet also plays a crucial role in ratifying treaties, declaring war, and setting federal policy on key issues such as defense, economy, and resource management.

The Imperial Council (Reichsrat)

The Imperial Council, or Reichsrat, functions as the executive branch of the NHRF. It is headed by the Imperial Chancellor (Reichskanzler), who is elected by the Imperial Diet. The Chancellor serves as the head of government and is responsible for implementing federal laws, managing the federal bureaucracy, and representing the Federation in international affairs.

The Imperial Council is composed of ministers (Reichsminister) appointed by the Chancellor, each heading a federal ministry responsible for a specific area of governance, such as defense, economy, interior, foreign affairs, and technology. The Council operates on principles of collective responsibility, with ministers accountable to both the Chancellor and the Imperial Diet.

The Imperial Council is responsible for day-to-day governance, policy implementation, and crisis management. It directs the federal agencies, oversees the armed forces, and manages the Federation's economic and technological development programs. The Chancellor and the Imperial Council play a critical role in shaping the NHRF's strategic direction and its response to the challenges of the post-cataclysm world.

The Imperial Judiciary (Reichsgericht)

The Imperial Judiciary, or Reichsgericht, serves as the judicial branch of the NHRF. It is headed by the Imperial Supreme Court (Reichsobergericht), which is the highest court in the Federation. The judiciary is responsible for interpreting federal laws, resolving disputes between states or between states and the federal government, and ensuring the rule of law within the NHRF.

The Imperial Supreme Court is composed of justices appointed by the Imperial Council and confirmed by the Imperial Diet. The judiciary operates independently of the legislative and executive branches, ensuring impartiality and upholding the constitutional principles of the Federation. The judicial system is structured in a hierarchical manner, with lower federal courts operating at regional and local levels, handling cases related to federal law and disputes involving federal entities.

Subnational Governance

Beneath the federal level, the Neo-Holy Roman Federation is composed of constituent states, which retain significant autonomy in matters not explicitly delegated to the federal government. These states can be broadly categorized into:

• Member Nations: These are the original nation-states that formed the core of the NHRF, such as Germany, France, Italy, and Poland. They retain their distinct national identities, languages, and cultural traditions. Member nations have their own elected governments, legislatures, and judicial systems, responsible for regional governance, education, healthcare, and local infrastructure.
• Autonomous Regions: These are regions with distinct cultural, historical, or geographical identities within member nations, granted a degree of self-governance by the federal constitution. Examples include Bavaria within Germany, Catalonia within Spain, or Scotland within the United Kingdom (which is an associate member of the NHRF). Autonomous regions typically have their own regional assemblies and administrations, managing local affairs within the framework of the member nation's laws and the federal constitution.

The balance of power between the federal government and the constituent states is a subject of ongoing negotiation and evolution within the NHRF. The principle of subsidiarity, where decisions are made at the lowest effective level of governance, is a guiding principle, but the precise division of responsibilities is often contested and subject to political debate.

Military and Defense Doctrines

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation maintains a powerful and technologically advanced military, known as the Imperial Armed Forces (Reichswehr). Given the volatile geopolitical landscape and the constant threat of monster incursions from Neo-America and elsewhere, defense is a paramount priority for the NHRF. The Reichswehr is structured as a joint force, integrating land, air, and naval components under a unified command structure.

Force Structure and Composition

The Reichswehr is composed of several branches, each with specialized roles and capabilities:

• Imperial Army (Kaiserliche Armee): The land warfare branch, responsible for territorial defense, ground operations, and expeditionary deployments. The Imperial Army is highly mechanized and technologically advanced, equipped with state-of-the-art armored vehicles, artillery systems, and infantry weaponry. It also incorporates specialized units trained in Nen-augmented combat and Demon Spirit integration.
• Imperial Air Force (Kaiserliche Luftwaffe): The air warfare branch, responsible for air superiority, strategic bombing, reconnaissance, and air support for ground forces. The Luftwaffe operates advanced fighter jets, bombers, transport aircraft, and drone systems. It plays a crucial role in defending NHRF airspace from aerial threats and projecting power beyond Federation borders.
• Imperial Navy (Kaiserliche Marine): The naval warfare branch, responsible for maritime security, naval projection, and protection of sea lanes. The Marine operates a modern fleet of warships, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, submarines, and amphibious assault vessels. It plays a vital role in safeguarding NHRF coastal regions, conducting overseas deployments, and maintaining a global naval presence.
• Imperial Guard (Kaiserliche Garde): An elite, multi-branch force responsible for strategic security, special operations, and defense of key federal installations and leadership. The Garde is composed of highly trained and augmented soldiers, often incorporating advanced Cyberware and Demon Spirit fusions. They are deployed in high-risk missions and serve as a rapid reaction force for critical contingencies.
• Imperial Nen Corps (Kaiserliches Nen-Korps): A specialized branch dedicated to the development, training, and deployment of Nen practitioners within the Reichswehr. The Nen-Korps integrates Nen techniques into military doctrine, developing aura-based defenses, offensive capabilities, and support functions. Nen practitioners are deployed across all branches of the Reichswehr, providing unique tactical advantages.

Defense Doctrines and Strategies

NHRF defense doctrines are characterized by a multi-layered approach, combining conventional military strength with advanced technological capabilities and Nen-based esoteric defenses. Key elements of NHRF defense strategy include:

• Forward Defense: Maintaining a strong military presence along the Federation's borders and in strategically important regions to deter aggression and respond rapidly to threats. This includes heavily fortified border zones, rapid reaction forces, and forward operating bases.
• Technological Superiority: Investing heavily in research and development to maintain a technological edge over potential adversaries. This includes advanced weaponry, Cyberware augmentation, energy shields, and sensor technologies.
• Nen Integration: Incorporating Nen techniques into military operations and defense systems. This includes aura-based shielding for military installations and personnel, Nen-enhanced weaponry, and specialized Nen-based reconnaissance and intelligence gathering capabilities.
• Demon Spirit Augmentation: Utilizing Demon Spirit fusion to enhance the combat capabilities of elite forces. This is primarily employed in specialized units like the Imperial Guard and in expeditionary forces operating in high-threat environments like Neo-America.
• Collective Security: Emphasizing alliances and partnerships with other nations and factions to enhance collective defense capabilities. The NHRF actively seeks to build strategic alliances and security cooperation agreements with friendly nations to strengthen its regional and global security posture.
• Deterrence: Maintaining a credible nuclear arsenal and advanced missile defense systems to deter large-scale aggression from other superpowers. The NHRF views nuclear deterrence as a crucial element of its national security strategy in the post-cataclysm world.

The Reichswehr is regularly deployed in operations both within and outside NHRF territory. It maintains a significant presence in Neo-America through its Military Bastion, New Bastion, conducting resource extraction, monster hunting, and security operations. It also participates in international peacekeeping missions and counter-monster operations in other regions of the world, projecting NHRF influence and protecting its global interests.

Economy and Resource Management

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation possesses a robust and diversified economy, ranking among the largest in the post-cataclysm world. Its economic strength is built upon a foundation of advanced industry, technological innovation, skilled labor, and strategic resource management.

Key Economic Sectors

• Manufacturing and Industry: The NHRF retains a strong industrial base, particularly in manufacturing of machinery, vehicles, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and advanced materials. German engineering and manufacturing prowess remains a cornerstone of the Federation's economy, supplemented by industrial capabilities from other member states like France, Italy, and Poland.
• Technology and Innovation: The NHRF is a global leader in technological innovation, particularly in areas such as robotics, Cyberware, energy technologies, Nen applications, and defense systems. Federal and private sector investment in research and development is substantial, driving technological progress and maintaining a competitive edge.
• Energy Sector: Access to reliable energy sources is critical for the NHRF economy. While the Federation lacks significant domestic deposits of fossil fuels, it has diversified its energy mix, relying on nuclear power, renewable energy sources (solar, wind, geothermal), and strategically acquired Radium Crystals. The NHRF is a pioneer in developing advanced energy storage and distribution technologies.
• Agriculture and Food Production: The fertile lands of Central and Western Europe provide a strong agricultural base for the NHRF. Advanced farming techniques, including vertical farming and radiation-resistant crops, ensure food security for the Federation's population. The NHRF is also a major exporter of agricultural products within Europe and to other regions.
• Financial Services: The NHRF hosts major financial centers, particularly in Frankfurt, Zurich, and Paris. These centers play a crucial role in global finance, banking, insurance, and investment management. The stability and reliability of the NHRF economy make it an attractive destination for international capital.

Resource Acquisition and Trade

The NHRF is strategically located in resource-rich regions of Europe and maintains extensive trade networks to secure access to vital resources from around the world. Key resource strategies include:

• Radium Crystal Procurement: Recognizing the critical importance of Radium Crystals as an energy source, the NHRF actively seeks to secure deposits and trade agreements for these crystals. It conducts expeditions into Neo-America, particularly to the Outer Zones and Inner Zones, to extract Radium Crystals, and also engages in trade with other factions and powers that control crystal sources.
• Strategic Resource Partnerships: The NHRF establishes long-term trade agreements and partnerships with nations and regions that possess valuable resources, such as minerals, metals, and rare earths. These partnerships ensure a stable supply of raw materials for NHRF industries.
• Resource Diversification: To mitigate risks associated with resource dependence, the NHRF pursues a strategy of resource diversification, seeking to utilize a wide range of energy sources and raw materials. This includes investing in renewable energy, recycling technologies, and developing synthetic materials.
• Trade and Commerce: The NHRF is a major trading power, engaging in extensive international trade in goods, services, and technology. It maintains strong trade relationships with the Malian Technocratic Empire and the Mongol Dominion, as well as with other regional powers and independent factions. Trade routes across Europe, Asia, and Africa are vital for the NHRF economy.

The NHRF economy is subject to ongoing challenges, including resource scarcity, environmental degradation, and geopolitical instability. However, its diversified economic base, technological dynamism, and strategic resource management position it as a resilient and adaptable economic power in the post-cataclysm world.

Culture and Societal Fabric

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation is a culturally diverse entity, reflecting the historical tapestry of Europe. It encompasses a multitude of languages, traditions, and regional identities, united under a shared federal framework and a common set of values.

Cultural Mosaic

The NHRF's cultural landscape is characterized by:

• Linguistic Diversity: German serves as the lingua franca of the Federation, particularly in federal institutions and inter-state communication. However, a multitude of languages are spoken within the NHRF, including French, Italian, Polish, Spanish, and numerous regional dialects. Multilingualism is encouraged, and cultural exchange programs promote understanding and appreciation of different linguistic traditions.
• Religious Pluralism: The NHRF is a secular federation, respecting freedom of religion and belief. Christianity, in its various denominations (Catholicism, Protestantism, Orthodoxy), remains a significant religious influence, but other faiths, including Islam, Judaism, and various indigenous spiritual traditions, are also practiced. Interfaith dialogue and cooperation are promoted to foster social harmony.
• Regional Identities: Strong regional identities persist within the NHRF, reflecting historical nations, provinces, and cultural regions. These identities are expressed through local traditions, festivals, cuisine, and artistic expressions. The federal structure respects and accommodates regional diversity, allowing for cultural autonomy within member states and autonomous regions.
• Artistic and Intellectual Flourishing: The NHRF is a center of artistic and intellectual creativity. European traditions of art, music, literature, philosophy, and science continue to thrive and evolve in the post-cataclysm world. Federal support for arts and culture, combined with private patronage, fosters a vibrant cultural scene.

Societal Values and Norms

NHRF society is generally characterized by:

• Order and Stability: Given the chaotic backdrop of the post-cataclysm world, order, stability, and security are highly valued in NHRF society. The Federation emphasizes rule of law, social responsibility, and collective security.
• Technological Progress: The NHRF embraces technological advancement as a means of overcoming the challenges of the post-cataclysm world and improving quality of life. Innovation, scientific research, and technological education are actively promoted.
• Resilience and Adaptability: The experience of the Incandescent Scission and its aftermath has fostered a culture of resilience and adaptability within NHRF society. The ability to overcome adversity, adapt to changing circumstances, and rebuild from setbacks is highly valued.
• Pragmatism and Efficiency: NHRF society tends to be pragmatic and efficiency-oriented, reflecting German and broader European cultural traits. Problem-solving, rational decision-making, and efficient resource utilization are emphasized in both public and private life.
• Cultural Preservation and Innovation: While embracing technological progress and adapting to the post-cataclysm environment, the NHRF also places value on preserving its rich cultural heritage. Efforts are made to safeguard historical sites, cultural traditions, and artistic expressions, while also encouraging contemporary artistic innovation.

The NHRF's societal fabric is not without its challenges. Social inequalities, generational divides, and tensions between different cultural groups persist. However, the Federation's commitment to inclusivity, cultural exchange, and social welfare programs aims to mitigate these challenges and foster a cohesive and harmonious society.

Territorial Extent and Geopolitical Reach

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation controls a vast territory encompassing much of continental Europe, extending from the Atlantic coast in the west to the borders of Eastern Europe, and from Scandinavia in the north to the Mediterranean Sea in the south. Its territorial holdings are strategically significant, providing access to vital resources, trade routes, and geopolitical leverage.

Core Territories

The core territories of the NHRF include:

• Central Europe: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia, Croatia. This region forms the heartland of the Federation, containing major industrial centers, agricultural lands, and key transportation corridors.
• Western Europe: France, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg. This region contributes significantly to the NHRF's economic and technological strength, with major urban centers, ports, and industrial zones.
• Southern Europe: Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece. This region provides access to the Mediterranean Sea, strategic naval bases, and agricultural resources.
• Scandinavia: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland. This region is rich in natural resources, particularly minerals and renewable energy sources, and provides strategic depth in the north.

Spheres of Influence and Outposts

Beyond its core territories, the NHRF exerts influence and maintains outposts in various regions:

• Eastern Europe: While not fully integrated into the NHRF, several Eastern European nations maintain close ties with the Federation, including associate memberships or strategic partnerships. The NHRF seeks to expand its sphere of influence eastward, balancing its interests with those of the Mongol Dominion.
• North Africa: The NHRF maintains trade relations and diplomatic ties with nations in North Africa, particularly with the Malian Technocratic Empire. It seeks to secure access to resources and markets in the region.
• Neo-America: Through its Military Bastion, New Bastion, the NHRF maintains a foothold in Neo-America, primarily focused on resource extraction and research in the Neon Divide. This outpost serves as a projection of NHRF power and a strategic asset in the competition for Neon Divide resources.
• Global Naval Presence: The Imperial Navy maintains a global presence, projecting NHRF power and protecting its maritime trade routes. Naval bases and port facilities are maintained in strategic locations around the world, allowing for rapid deployment and sustained operations.

Territorial Disputes and Expansionism

The NHRF's territorial expansion and geopolitical ambitions are not without challenges and disputes:

• Eastern Border Tensions: The NHRF's eastern border with the Mongol Dominion is a zone of potential tension and competition. Territorial disputes, resource competition, and ideological differences contribute to a complex and sometimes volatile relationship.
• Neo-American Competition: The Neon Divide is a major arena of competition between the NHRF, the Malian Technocratic Empire, and the Mongol Dominion. Resource extraction, control of strategic locations, and the pursuit of pre-disaster technology fuel ongoing rivalry and occasional clashes.
• Internal Regionalism: While the NHRF has successfully integrated diverse regions, underlying regional tensions and separatist movements persist in some areas. Managing regional aspirations and maintaining internal cohesion remains an ongoing challenge.

Despite these challenges, the Neo-Holy Roman Federation remains a major geopolitical power, actively shaping the global landscape and pursuing its strategic interests through diplomacy, economic influence, technological innovation, and military strength.

Relations with Other Superpowers

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation's geopolitical strategy is heavily influenced by its relationships with the other two dominant superpowers: the Malian Technocratic Empire and the Mongol Dominion. These relationships are complex and multifaceted, characterized by a mix of cooperation, competition, and rivalry.

Malian Technocratic Empire

The NHRF and the Malian Technocratic Empire maintain a relationship of pragmatic cooperation and economic interdependence. While culturally and ideologically distinct, both powers recognize the mutual benefits of trade, technological exchange, and limited security cooperation.

• Economic Cooperation: The NHRF and Mali are major trading partners. The NHRF imports resources, particularly rare earth minerals and bio-engineered products, from Mali, while exporting manufactured goods, technology, and financial services. Trade routes across the Mediterranean and North Africa are vital for both economies.
• Technological Exchange: While competing in some technological fields, the NHRF and Mali also engage in selective technological exchange. The NHRF is interested in Malian advancements in bioengineering and eco-engineering, while Mali seeks NHRF expertise in robotics, Cyberware, and energy technologies.
• Limited Security Cooperation: In specific areas, such as counter-monster operations and maritime security, the NHRF and Mali engage in limited security cooperation. They share intelligence, coordinate naval patrols in the Mediterranean, and occasionally conduct joint military exercises.
• Ideological Differences: Despite cooperation, significant ideological differences exist between the NHRF and Mali. The NHRF is a federal republic with democratic institutions, while Mali is a technocratic empire ruled by an elite council of scientists and engineers. These differences sometimes lead to diplomatic friction and divergent approaches to global issues.
• Competition in Neo-America: The Neon Divide is a zone of competition between the NHRF and Mali. Both powers maintain military bastions and resource extraction operations in Neo-America, leading to occasional territorial disputes and resource rivalry.

Mongol Dominion

The NHRF and the Mongol Dominion maintain a relationship of cautious coexistence and strategic rivalry. Geographically adjacent and ideologically opposed, these two superpowers are engaged in a long-term competition for influence and resources across Eurasia.

• Strategic Rivalry: The NHRF and the Mongol Dominion are strategic rivals, vying for influence in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Arctic region. They maintain large military forces along their shared borders and engage in geopolitical maneuvering to expand their spheres of influence.
• Ideological Opposition: The NHRF, with its emphasis on federalism, democracy, and cultural pluralism, stands in ideological contrast to the Mongol Dominion, an autocratic empire ruled by a Khanate with a strong emphasis on centralized authority and traditional Mongol culture. This ideological opposition fuels mistrust and rivalry.
• Resource Competition: Both the NHRF and the Mongol Dominion are interested in securing resources in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Arctic. Competition for access to minerals, energy resources, and strategic territories contributes to tensions between the two powers.
• Limited Trade and Contact: While primarily rivals, the NHRF and the Mongol Dominion maintain limited trade and diplomatic contacts. Trade routes across Eurasia facilitate some level of economic exchange, and occasional diplomatic summits are held to manage tensions and address specific issues.
• Proxy Conflicts: In various regions, such as Eastern Europe and Central Asia, the NHRF and the Mongol Dominion support opposing factions and engage in proxy conflicts. These conflicts are often localized and contained, but they contribute to regional instability and heightened tensions between the superpowers.

The NHRF's relationships with the Malian Technocratic Empire and the Mongol Dominion are dynamic and constantly evolving. The Federation's foreign policy seeks to balance cooperation with competition, manage rivalries, and secure its strategic interests in a complex and multipolar world.

NHRF Presence in Neon America

The Neo-Holy Roman Federation maintains a significant presence in Neo-America, primarily driven by the allure of Radium Crystals, pre-disaster technology caches, and the potential for scientific research in the mutated ecosystems of the Neon Divide. Its primary foothold in the region is New Bastion, a major Military Bastion strategically located in the Outer Zones of Neo-America.

New Bastion: A Bulwark and Launchpad

New Bastion serves as a multi-faceted hub for NHRF operations in Neo-America:

• Military Outpost: New Bastion is a heavily fortified military base, garrisoned by a substantial contingent of Reichswehr forces, including the Imperial Army, Luftwaffe, and specialized Nen Corps units. It serves as a defensive bulwark against monster incursions and a forward operating base for NHRF expeditions into the Neon Divide.
• Resource Extraction Hub: New Bastion coordinates NHRF resource extraction operations in the Outer Zones and Inner Zones of Neo-America. Expeditions are launched from New Bastion to mine Radium Crystals, salvage pre-disaster technology, and harvest mutated flora and fauna for research purposes.
• Research and Development Center: New Bastion hosts research facilities focused on studying the unique ecosystems of the Neon Divide, analyzing mutated creatures and Demon Spirits, and developing technologies to exploit Neon Divide resources and mitigate radiation hazards. Scientists and engineers from NHRF universities and corporations are stationed at New Bastion to conduct research and field experiments.
• Trade and Logistics Hub: New Bastion functions as a trade and logistics center for NHRF operations in Neo-America. It serves as a point of contact for trade with Nomadic Survival Groups, Freeholds, and other factions operating in the Neon Divide. Supplies, equipment, and personnel are transported through New Bastion to support NHRF activities in the region.
• Diplomatic Mission: New Bastion houses a diplomatic mission representing the NHRF in Neo-America. Diplomats engage with local factions, corporations, and other superpowers' representatives, seeking to advance NHRF interests and manage relations in the fragmented landscape of Neo-America.

NHRF Expeditions into the Neon Divide

From New Bastion, the NHRF launches regular expeditions into the various hazard zones of the Neon Divide:

• Outer Zone Expeditions: These expeditions focus on resource scavenging in the relatively safer Outer Zones. They are typically composed of lightly armored vehicles, scouting units, and teams of scavengers and prospectors. Their primary objectives are to locate low-grade Radium Crystals, salvage pre-disaster artifacts, and establish trade contacts with Outer Zone settlements.
• Inner Zone Expeditions: Expeditions into the Inner Zones are more heavily equipped and specialized, requiring advanced radiation shielding and combat capabilities. These expeditions target high-grade Radium Crystal deposits, pre-disaster tech caches in urban ruins, and mutated flora and fauna with unique properties. They often encounter more formidable mutated creatures and require Nen-augmented security personnel.
• Deep Zone Operations: Deep Zone operations are highly classified and conducted by elite teams of Reichswehr Imperial Guards and Nen Corps operatives, often augmented with advanced Cyberware and Demon Spirit fusions. These operations are extremely risky, targeting the most valuable resources and technologies in the most dangerous regions of the Neon Divide, including Apex Monster hunting and Elder Dragon encounters.

NHRF operations in Neo-America are driven by a strategic imperative to secure resources, advance technological knowledge, and project power in a region of global significance. However, these operations are also fraught with dangers, facing radiation hazards, mutated creatures, and competition from other factions vying for control of the Neon Divide.